Developmental Disabilities
A Teaching Resource Web-Kit
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American's with Disabilities Act
Administration for Children and Families
The American Association on Mental Retardation defines mental retardation as a disability characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. This disability originates before age 18. It is not a medical disorder, nor a mental disorder. The AAMR further states that “…mental retardation refers to a particular state of functioning that begins in childhood, has many dimensions, and is affected positively by individualized supports. As a model of functioning, it includes the contexts and environment within which the person functions and interacts and requires a multidimensional and ecological approach that reflects the interaction of the individual with the environment, and the outcomes of that interaction with regards to independence, relationships, societal contributions, participation in school and community, and personal well being.”
The AAMR advises professionals to:
• evaluate limitations in present functioning within the context
of the individual’s age peers and culture;
• take into account the individual’s cultural and linguistic
differences as well as communication, sensory, motor, and behavioral factors;
• recognize that within an individual limitations often coexist with
strengths;
• describe limitations so that an individualized plan of needed supports
can be developed; and
• provide appropriate personalized supports to improve the functioning
of a person with mental retardation.
Intelligent Quotient (IQ) scores are used as a criterion for diagnosis of cognitive disability. Generally, an IQ test score of 70 or below, significant limitations in adaptive behavior skills and evidence that the disability was present before age 18 are criteria for determination of mental retardation.
Source: http://www.aamr.org/Policies/faq_mental_retardation.shtml
Note: The American Association on Mental Retardation has voted to change
their name to American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
Myth: People with disabilities are inspirational, courageous, and brave for overcoming their disability.
Reality: People with disabilities are simply
carrying on normal activities of daily living when they do things such as
drive to work, compete in athletic events, or participate in recreational
activities. However, they do encounter obstacles in the environment and
society that can make life challenging. Access to community services and
supports can address many of these barriers.